Footlocker

Rakann Ammari Fin 431, Exam #1 February 17, 2010 Foot Locker Incorporated: Risk Prevention Methods Foot Locker Incorporated (ticker symbol: FL) is a U. S. based company that operates worldwide. Their services include the sale of various athletic equipment, sports apparel and products. According to their company background, as of the beginning of 2009 Foot Locker operates roughly 3,600 retail stores in 21 countries worldwide (â€Å"About Us†).Although Foot Locker provides their goods through both local retail stores and an online based â€Å"direct-to- customers† program, my risk management tactics will primarily focus on local retailers and warehouses and their risks. The five risks I have chosen are employee theft within the local branches and through bank accounts, customer theft within the store, physical injuries to customers and employees on Foot Locker property, property damage to Foot Locker property due to obscene weather conditions and the risk of fluctuating p rices of necessary inputs that are used in the production of various Foot Locker goods including footwear.One of the most essential inputs in the production of footwear is rubber. As a risk manager, I must take into account the possibility of the cost of rubber increasing. According to the commodities index ran by indexmundi. com, the price of rubber has increased every month for the past 6 months. In January 2010, the price of rubber increased to $139. 73 from $92. 86 merely 6 months ago in August of 2009 (â€Å"Rubber Monthly Prices†). This nearly 34% increase in the commodity price of rubber could have devastating effects on Foot Lockers cost of production.This increase will potentially increase the cost of producing foot and athletic wear, which in turn will increase retail prices. The need for consumers to purchase high end Foot Locker products will then decrease as retail prices increase. Rubber remains the main input in producing footwear; however the leather used in e veryday footwear is prevalent enough to be looked at. Due to the fluctuating productivity and efficiency during the current economic downturn, buyers tend to be less predictable. â€Å"Earlier, the buyers anticipated sales trend and placed orders well ahead of time.But now they wait to ensure retail off-take before placing orders. Improving speed of operations even as one keeps cost down is important (â€Å"Business Line†). † This efficiency has brought down leather prices. â€Å"Leather prices are also dropping and this contributed to leather costs coming down to 50-60 per cent from 70 per cent (â€Å"Business Line†). † Although this decrease in leather costs could potentially help the cost of footwear production, the main input in footwear production is rubber. As the price of the main input of my product increases, I must be ready to counteract this risk.In doing so, I am also performing another risk by hedging the cost of my inputs. I must be willing to set a pre-determined price of rubber to be purchased from my wholesaler for a set amount time. Although I take the risk of the price falling below my set price, since the prices have increased at a constant rate for the past 6 months my current risk is dramatically lower. By setting the price 6 months ahead of time I, as a risk manager, potentially prevent the 34% loss that could have occurred over the past 6 months. Along with the speculative risk of price fluctuation, there are many pure risks that come when providing goods to consumers.Employee theft is one of the most common risks an employer or company takes on when doing business. â€Å"Every year billions of dollars are lost by businesses nationwide to employee fraud and theft and the number of incidents are rising. † (Schaefer 1). Employees could steal cash, merchandise, and illegally redirect customer account information to a private account. â€Å"A former Foot Locker employee was sentenced to five years probati on and ordered to pay nearly $26,000 in restitution for taking the company’s money to cover his Internet gambling debts (The Maui News). Although a prison sentence and or a large fine may be the consequences of such employee theft, the $385,000,000 of cash and cash equivalents (2009) available for theft seems to lure in potential thieves (â€Å"Balance Sheet†). The $1,120,000,000 in merchandise inventory available for possible theft is a savoring number to employees and even Foot Locker customers. Shoplifting is a prevalent crime within the United States that must be controlled by risk managers.During December of 2009, a Foot Locker in Atlanta, Georgia was robbed when â€Å"police arrested two adults and four juveniles in a smash and grab job. † (CBS Atlanta 1) Unlike employee theft, customer theft is limited to the $1,120,000,000 in merchandise inventory (â€Å"Balance Sheet†). Although the inventory and cash could potentially be recovered from the emplo yee(s) or customer(s) through a lawsuit, as a risk manager I would need to take preventative action. I would create loss control by having surveillance cameras both watching customer and employee actions.This includes surveillance on all cash registers and credit card machines. Also, I would inform both the customer and employee they are being watched and remind them of the potential prison punishment for any crime committed by posting signs throughout the store. For employees I would conduct thorough background checks to prevent the hiring of former high profile convicts. I would also spread the finances among various managers; I would not allow a single manager to keep track of or control the finances of any single retail store or warehouse.Finally, as a risk manager I would follow up on any customer complaints with any banking issues and take into account any reported suspicions by employees about other employee or customer theft. In order to further prevent loss, I would purchas e an insurance policy to insure any outsized amount of fraud or crime committed. Another risk held by business owners is the possibility of a lawsuit by customers and or employees for sustaining bodily injuries. Customers or employees may slip on an unmarked wet spot causing a concussion or other bodily harm.Also, a tall person might hit an unmarked metal shutter or sign. Injuries may range from a â€Å"no problem† scrap or bump to a serious lawsuit involving several injuries. An employee may sever his or her spine after falling off a 20 foot latter while trying to stock merchandise; or be severely harmed while operating footwear machinery within a company warehouse. The potential loss and costs can be irreparable depending on the lawsuit. Several precautions should be set in place. Prior to employment, I would mandate all employees to sign a contract indicating that a lawsuit against Foot Locker cannot be conducted.The contract would include bodily injuries. However, a sever ance package under workers compensation will be rewarded to all deserving employees pending a full investigation. As of 2009, company severance packages totaled $13,000,000 (â€Å"Balance Sheet†). I would also provide training on how to stock merchandise within a retail store; warn customers of a wet floor or potential harmful area; and teach employees how to operate equipment within a warehouse. For customer lawsuit prevention, I would have managers post clear signs where potential harm may occur.Also, I would post a sign right outside of every retail store transferring injury risk to all customers that step foot into a Foot Locker location. Furthermore, I would purchase several insurance packages against high stakes lawsuits from employees or customers that obtained bodily injuries on Foot Locker property. Using these measures reduces Foot Locker’s liability to customers and employees. However, the risk to Foot Locker’s property is always rampant due to prospe ctive weather disasters. The potential cost during a weather disaster such as a flood or a hurricane can be enormous.Although the idea of all of Foot Locker’s stores and warehouses being affected at the same time is highly improbable, the potential can be exceedingly high. The net value (purchase price subtracted by accumulated depreciation) of Foot Locker’s buildings, furniture, fixtures & equipment reached $223,000,000 in 2009 (â€Å"Balance Sheet†). This amount of loss could potentially bankrupt Foot Locker without the possibility of coming back into business. To prevent such a loss, Foot Locker could place their warehouses in locations with a lower potential for harmful weather conditions.Locations that tend to have a hotter climate with low wind gusts are ideal due to the low probability of property damage. Also, I would purchase insurance on all property, furniture and equipment that would covered a loss due to catastrophic weather. A precautionary mea sure to minor damage could be using flood bags during a flood and making sure exposed sections of property are sufficiently covered to prevent wind from damaging interior assets. To add on, in order to protect employees from harm a risk manager should make sure all emergency equipment is working roperly and all employees understand emergency procedures. As a risk manager, assessing risks and developing the appropriate amount of precautionary methods to prevent potential risks is essential. Keeping track of these risks while evaluating the possible loss is just as essential; and a well developed report will help subordinate these risks.ReferencePage Footlocker. com. â€Å"About Us. † 2010.   http://www. footlocker-inc. com/company. cfm? page=aboutâ€Å"Gambling Debts Over Internet Tied to Thefts. † Former Footlocker Theft Case. 2010. The Maui News. 7 February 2008. http://www. aproundtable. org/gamblingsruinedlives/im. htmlIndex Mundi. â€Å"Rubber Monthly Prices. â €  2010. http://www. indexmundi. com/commodities/? commodity=rubber&months=300Schaefer, Patricia. â€Å"Employee Theft a Big Problem. † Business Know-How. 2006. Attard Communications. http://www. businessknowhow. com/manage/employee-theft. htm

Who is responsible for the downfall of Macbeth and how far does he fit the role of a Tragic hero?

In my essay I am going to be writing about who is responsible for the downfall of Macbeth and how far does he fit the role of a tragic hero. During the play we see how Macbeth's attitude changes. For example, at the beginning of the play, when he meets the witches, it is the witches want to meet him, â€Å"There to meet with Macbeth,† When he first meets them he talks in mannered voice. However after he becomes a king, he goes back to meet the witches and he is more demanding. In my opinion, there are many people responsible for Macbeth's downfall, Lady Macbeth, the witches and Macbeth himself. I am going to be discussing how they individually responsible and how they contribute to his downfall. For the second part of my essay I have been asked to discuss how far he fits the role of a tragic hero. A tragic hero is the main character who at the beginning is good, brave and noble but who changes because of a fatal flaw. A fatal flaw is a kind of mistake that is very dangerous. It could lead to lots of people suffering. I think Macbeth does fit the role of a tragic hero. He was born of Noble blood. At the begging he is a brave man, known as a noble man, and would do anything for his country and his king. â€Å"For brave Macbeth, well he deserves that name,† This tells us that people at the beginning people thought that he was brave. However, at the end becomes bad and kills the king, his friend Banquo and Macduff's family. The fatal flow of Macbeth is his ambition and desire. His ambition and desire made his country and himself suffer. â€Å"My way of life is fallen into the sere.† This shows that he has realized his mistake, which is another thing related to the title ‘tragic hero'. At the end the tragic hero realizes their mistake. In my essay I will be discussing who is responsible for his downfall which leads him to become a tragic hero. Macbeth was based in the 16th century. Supernatural belief during the 16th Century was a huge part of the resulting deaths of thousands of innocent people. Many years ago, people couldn't find any evidence to what caused the natural things like lightning in the sky, rain, birth and death. Because of this, they believed that natural things were controlled by the witches. They believed that witches can do various things, for example, they can control the weather, they can predict the future, they could fly, they could swim and also mostly they were women. Some women were put in the witch test. They would drop somebody in the water and if they can swim, they were witch and they would be punished to death. If they can't swim, they would drown and die. In my opinion, the first people who could be held responsible for Macbeth's downfall are the witches. At first Macbeth was a noble and a loyal man who would never even think about killing his king. However, the witches gave him the idea of becoming king. They prophesied his future. The prophecies were: 1 WITCH: â€Å"All hail, Macbeth! Hail to thee, Thane of Glamis!† 2 WITCH: â€Å"All hail, Macbeth! Hail to thee, Thane of Cawdor!† 3 WITCH: â€Å"All hail, Macbeth, that shalt be King hereafter!† These prophecies were saying that he is the Thane of Glamis; he will become the Thane of Cawdor and would eventually become the king. At first Macbeth didn't believe in them. However, as soon he found out that he was the Thane of Cawdor, â€Å"He bade me, from him, call thee Thane of Cawdor.† He started to think about the prophecies again. â€Å"This supernatural soliciting cannot be ill, cannot be good. If ill, why hath it given me earnest of success, Commencing in a truth? I am Thane of Cawdor. If good, why do I yield to that suggestion?† On the other hand, the witches never told him to kill the king. They never told him he had to do anything. He could become the king like he became the Thane of Cawdor. In my opinion, we cannot really say they are entirely responsible for his downfall. God gave free will so he could have chosen not to listen to the witches. I think Macbeth could have ignored the witches' prophecies like Banquo. Banquo was also given prophecies. The prophecies for Banquo were: FIRST WITCH: â€Å"Lesser than Macbeth, and greater.† SECOND WITCH: â€Å"Not so happy, yet much happier.† THIRD WITCH: â€Å"Thou shalt get kings, though thou be none.† Macbeth went on to not only kill the king; he also killed his friend Banquo and Macduff's family. He did this because he thought that Banquo's children would become the king and that the witches had placed a â€Å"barren sceptre† in his hand. So he tried killing Banquo's son but was failed to kill him. He wanted his children to become the king after him. Also the witches were involved in giving him the idea of killing Macduff's family. After he became the king of Scotland, he went back to the witches to find out more. They gave him three more prophecies, these prophecies were given by the witches' master, and they were: FIRST APPARITION: â€Å"Macbeth! Macbeth! Macbeth! Beware Macduff; Beware the Thane of Fife.† SECOND APPARITION: â€Å"Be bloody, bold, and resolute; laugh to scorn the power of man, for no one given birth to by a woman shall harm Macbeth.† THIRD APPARITION: â€Å"Be lion-mettled, proud, and take no care who chafes, who frets, or where conspirers are: Macbeth shall never vanquish'd be until Great Birnam Wood to high Dunsinane Hill shall come against him.† After hearing these prophecies, Macbeth felt invincible. He thought everyone is born of women so why should he be scared of Macduff, â€Å"Then live, Macduff. What need I fear of thee?† He also, after hearing the third prophecy, said â€Å"That will never be. Who can impress the forest, bid the tree unfix his earth-bound root? Sweet bodements, good! Rebellion's head, rise never, till the Wood of Birnam rise, and our high-placed Macbeth.† These prophecies led him to kill innocent people, the Macduff's family. I also think that Lady Macbeth can also be held responsible for her husband's downfall. The witches gave Macbeth the idea of becoming the king but Lady Macbeth persuaded him to kill Duncan. Lady Macbeth urged her husband to commit murder and it was this action that led to Macbeth's downfall but she did not know that he would go on to kill again and again. Nevertheless, she was just responsible for the murder of King Duncan but after he decided to kill more people, like Banquo and even Macduff to hide his sins. After Lady Macbeth receives the letter about how one of the prophecies from the witches came true, she calls upon the evil spirits. â€Å"Fill me, from the crown to the toe, top-full of direst cruelty.† She knows that Macbeth is a good person and he would not kill Duncan, â€Å"Yet do I fear thy nature: it is too full o' the milk of human kindness.† In Shakespeare's time women weren't treated equal as men. She would've have had more powers because if Macbeth becomes the King, then she can become the queen. Macbeth, on the other hand, does not like the idea at first of having to kill his king to take his position. He gives lots of reason to not to kill the king, â€Å"First as I am his kinsman and his subject, strong both against the deed; then, as his host, who should against his murderer shut the door, not bear the knife myself.† He also says that Duncan has been a good king. â€Å"†¦Duncan hath borne his faculties so meek, hath been so clear in his great office, that his virtues will please like angels.† Lady Macbeth becomes aware of her husband's weakness, and persuades him, allowing his ambitions get the better of him, and believed that it was her responsibility to guide Macbeth to being king. She accuses him of being coward and not a man. â€Å"And live a coward in thine own esteem,† here she says that is she living with a coward. Also she says what she would do if she promised something, â€Å"How tender ‘t is to love the babe that milks me: I would, while it was smiling in my face, have plucked my nipple from his boneless gums, and dashed the brains out, had I sworn as you have done to this.† This shows that she would have done anything she promised, although she is a woman, so he should do as he has promised to be a man. Macbeth tries to make Lady Macbeth understand the possible consequences for killing the king. He always tries to back down, â€Å"We will proceed no further in this business: he hath honoured me of late; and I have bought golden opinions from all sorts of people,† but she is always calling him coward and says he is not a man. He is scared if somebody finds out. He is ready to take on the consequences of the hereafter but he is afraid of the consequences of this life. â€Å"But, in these cases, we still have judgement here,† this confirms that he knows he is going to get punished on earth, which he is scared of. The final thing that is responsible for Macbeth's downfall is Macbeth's ambition. Macbeth could not control his urges to be King. He followed his ambitions without regard to humanity or the affects his actions would have on the people around him. He carried on and listened to his wife and the witches. Macbeth had a choice but he picked the bad choice and chose to kill the king and then later decided himself to kill again and again. â€Å"I have done this deed.† Lady Macbeth only manipulated him to kill the king, but the decisions to kill and Banquo and the Macduff family were his own. He decided to kill these people listening to the prophecies of the witches. He killed Banquo, and tried to kill Banquo's son, because he didn't want Banquo's children to be the king. He decided to kill Macduff because of the prophecies that were given by the witches the second time. Evidence that shows that he wanted to become the king is he wrote the letter to his wife. He wanted support from his wife. He should not have written the letter to his wife and not let her know about the prophecies. He chose to let her know and chose to let her persuade him to kill King Duncan. Writing the letter to his wife informing her about the witches and their prophecies shows that becoming king was initially in his mind. Macbeth was not weak but his ambitions made him morally weak. At the beginning of the play, Macbeth was described as a brave warrior who was loyal to his king. The king also liked him, â€Å"And, when he reads thy personal venture in the rebels' fight, his wonders and his praises do contend,† but like any other person, he had his fatal flaw. His fatal flaw was he had ambitions â€Å"vaulting ambition†. In conclusion I think that it was the witches and Lady Macbeth who are responsible for the start of his downfall. If the witches had not given him the idea of becoming a king then he probably would not have thought about becoming the king. If Lady Macbeth had not influenced him, then he probably would have stopped. However, Macbeth did listen to the witches and Lady Macbeth. Then he is the one who is actually responsible for his downfall. He is the one made the final decision and he is the one who led him self into the role of tragic hero. He made himself suffer, â€Å"My way of life is fallen into the sere.†

H.W Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 10

H.W - Essay Example 29 years after the tragic event, it is but right that a new generation of people come to learn of the facts surrounding an event that redefined the way that governments respond to chemical explosions. This paper will also look at the after effect of the explosion on the judicial system and take a look at how the victims have benefitted or not from the court decisions. It is important to understand that the Bhopal tragedy did not fall squarely on the shoulders of Union-Carbide, a mere stock holder in the Union-Carbide plant. Rather, Union-Carbide India was owned and operated by the Indian company of the same name. In a statement on their website, Union - Carbide explains that: â€Å"Union Carbide India Limited designed, built and managed the plant using Indian consultants and workers. In 1994, Union Carbide sold its entire stake in UCIL to Mcleod Russel India Limited of Calcutta, and UCIL was renamed Eveready Industries India Limited (Eveready Industries). As a result of the sale of its shares in UCIL, Union Carbide retained no interest in - or liability for - the Bhopal site. The proceeds of the UCIL sale were placed in a trust and exclusively used to fund a hospital in Bhopal, which now provides specialist care to victims of the tragedy. â€Å" After the explosion, Union Carbide hired the independent firm of Arthur D. Little, Inc. to undertake a thorough investigation as to what caused the explosion. The findings of the investigators was clear. There was sabotage involved as water backed into the tank that caused a chemical reaction, leading to the explosion. ( Bhopal Information Center, â€Å"Statement of Union Carbide Regarding The Bhopal Tragedy†). Safety precautions have since been taken on a world wide scale to prevent the occurrence of another explosion stemming from a similar cause. The Supreme Court of India saw just cause to hold Union-Carbide partly responsible

The central concepts of finance Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

The central concepts of finance - Essay Example In this case therefore, as argued by Bodie, et al, (2011), if the market is not able to predict its fluctuations, but does asses them as being likely or less likely, then the likelihood can be accessed through mathematical process using the relevant information in the market. Thus, factors such as price reflect all the relevant information that is available in terms of the total value of an asset. With the introduction and analysis of the financial efficiency, this paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the market efficiency types and the approaches to test this efficiency. After the emergence of stock market, there was a widespread concern and controversy that made most of the investors to be keen when participating in the market. The situation was caused by the fact that their approach of making their profits seemed inappropriate. Considering that the stock market is an important component of the capital market, many economists in the world developed serious concerns and intere sts in exploring the trend of stock price. In this case, even though the intentions were different, there has been a central focus on the trend of the capital market in the global financial market. As the efficient market hypothesis became known to many, it became also an important part of the school of rational expectations theory, and one of the theoretical foundations of modern economic principles. As argued by the America financial economist, Fama (1965), if the market price fully reflect the all of available information.

Global Warming Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words - 1

Global Warming - Term Paper Example The term Global Warming refers to the continuous increase in earth’s average temperature since 1950’s due to human activity and environmental deterioration by various harmful chemicals which are being added to the environment, mainly due to the burning of the fossil fuels. Another term that needs to be defined along with Global Warming is the Green House Effect, which refers to the trapping of heat by the gases such as carbon dioxide, hydrocarbons, water vapors and fuel particles etc. Green House Effect was first considered into study by S. Arrhenius during the last decade of the 19th century when the scientists first observed the changing global climatic conditions. Energy comes from the sun in the form of visible and invisible light rays; the desirable rays reach the surface of the Earth after getting filtered by the ozone layer. These rays are absorbed and reflected by the dark and light surfaces on earth. The reflected rays go back to the space whereas the absorbed rays heat up the substance by which they are absorbed and are thus converted into heat energy. This heat energy is radiated into the atmosphere and various gases in the atmosphere which include CO2, hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides absorb a considerable amount of this energy before it returns to the space. These gases act as the screen of a Greenhouse which permits the energy to enter but does not allow it to return, thus the natural phenomena explained in the lines above is known as Green House Effect and the gases responsible for this effect are known as the Green House Gases (GHG’s). The Green House Effect is in fact a natural phenomenon because the Green House Gases are naturally present in the atmosphere. The presence of these gases is essential for the sustaining life on Earth because these gases keep sufficient amount of energy in the atmosphere which is needed for the presence of life on the Earth. The absence of these gases will result in a climate like the one on Ma rs (where there are no Green House Gases), on the other hand the presence of these gases in quantities greater than the required amount will result in temperatures so high as observed on Venus (where the concentration of GHG’s is much higher and the temperature is nearly 1000 degrees). Thus for the Earth temperatures to remain in the permissible limits the amount of these gases also need to be limited within a specified range, below which temperatures will become very low and above this range temperatures will become unbearably high. The GHG’s naturally exist in the environment however due to the recent advances in the technology, humans are emitting more and more GHG’s into the atmosphere and thus the concentration of these gases is being increased in the atmosphere resulting in an artificial Green House Effect (Houghton, 2004). The subject of this paper is to find out whether Global Warming is caused by the human activities? And what can humans do to stop Glob al Warming from taking place? There exists a consensus among the scientists over the fact that the temperature of the Earth has been rising over the past 150 years, however there was a difference of opinion among scientists about the correct cause of this change in temperature trend (Faust, 2008).

Identifying Potential Risk, Response, and Recovery Assignment - 1

Identifying Potential Risk, Response, and Recovery - Assignment Example It can be done by having a strategy to counter these risks spanning risk mitigation, risk assignment, risk acceptance and risk avoidance. Moreover, control mechanisms ranging from administrative, preventive, detective and corrective should be put in play. In this document, we center around four main security threats to the company. They include data security, computer virus risk, Keystroke logging, and adware. These risks if not properly managed may cost the organization a great deal. First, the entire processing in the organization will significantly be lowered. The institution, as a result, may delay in meeting its deadlines. Secondly, the resources may not last to the projected time frame and thus call for replacement earlier than anticipated. The worse part could be losing the organizations secret or procedures to other competitors in the market that may completely cripple the existence of the institution. After noting the adverse effects the threats could have on the organizatio n as a whole, there is an urgent need to avoid reaching such an extent. Our method of selecting which method to effect will highly depend on the nature of the threat at hand. In its entirety, adware is a sequence of instructions written to effect downloading of adverts to one's computer system. It also functions on its own and could perform various displays. The source of the adware is through application software that has instructions to work on your computer (Bersani, 2008). Alternatively, they could arise when that software is in use. Whereas it is easier to avoid such software’s, acquiring them elsewhere could be involved or more costly. Users consequently sacrifice for the free use of such software. The greatest threat is an adware that is in the form of spyware.

Project Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 6500 words

Project - Essay Example The rich historical background of agriculture in Australia is traced in the 1800s when the government encouraged exploration of huge tracts of land for farming and for pasture. However, due to the physical characteristics of the land coupled with the dry climate, the indigenous agricultural product that initially became the trademark for Australia is wool. The culture portal of the Australian government revealed that â€Å"wool became the cornerstone of Australian agriculture and Australia is often said to have 'ridden on the sheep's back' through the early days of its economic development† (Australian Government, par. 5). In the 1900s, greater diversity in crops and agricultural products emerged in Australia. Among the predominant produce, aside from wool and wheat were beef, different grain varieties, fruits and vegetables. Sugar and grapes also emerged as an income generating products. The early part of the 20th century marked the growth of production in agricultural produc ts beyond what the population could consume, necessitating exports to international markets (Australian Government, par. 10). The incentives provided by the Australian Government to encourage production and discourage imports paved the way for continued growth in the agricultural sector of Australia. It was thereby revealed that â€Å"across much of the early 20th century, the Australian government provided assistance to farmers and primary producers in the form of bounties, to encourage production, employment and export. The government also placed tariffs on some goods to discourage imports† (Australian Government, par. 11). The official report on Australia’s agriculture, fisheries and forestry in 2010 reveal that a total of sixty percent in agricultural produce is being exported and has generated $32 billion during the period 2008 to 2009 (At a glance, 5). In this regard, the research aims to proffer relevant features of Australian agriculture, to delve into its role in the growth and development of the economy, to determine its current status together with its advantages and disadvantages, recent improvements and future trends. After determining current problems, the research would recommend courses of action to address the dilemmas affecting agriculture in Australia. 1.2 Features of Australia Agriculture The contemporary status of agriculture in Australia is measured in terms of its gross value of domestic production or GDP which, as of 2002, was revealed to amount to $39.6 Billion (Australian Bureau of Statistics, par. 1). There are other measures of the contribution of agriculture to the economy of Australia, to wit: â€Å"gross farm product (GFP), which is a measure of the value added in production contributed by businesses classified to the Australian and New Zealand Standard Industrial Classification (ANZSIC) Subdivision 01 (Agriculture). In 1999-2000 GFP was calculated to be $17.6 billion, or just under 3% of gross domestic product; ag gregate

Contract Law Master Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3500 words

Contract Law Master - Case Study Example This was also the case in Goedecke v Kirwan1where the Court found that an agreement on price was a necessary term of offer and acceptance; hence no final, enforceable contract existed since price had not been agreed upon. Thus Hilary may have some rights under the option, but they may not be fully enforceable. In the case of Barack, he seeks re-possession of his flat. Under the option clause in the agreement, Barack may not have the automatic right to reposses the flat, when there is an option available to the lessee to continue. In the case of Butts v O'Dwyer2 a similar situation arose, where there was an option to purchase the lease property subject to fixing of a price by the third party. In this instance, the Court concluded that it could correctly be said that the complete was incomplete until the price was fixed. The existence of the option indicated that the owner had an obligation to do everything in his power to ensure that the price was fixed through the third party. This is applicable in Hillary's case, since Clauses 5(d) and 17(b) lay out the procedure for fixing of the price in the event an agreement cannot be reached between the parties. ... at Hillary seeks, it may nevertheless place an obligation upon Barack to take necessary steps to ensure that the incomplete term in the contract, i.e, the price is fixed. In the case of Booker Industries Pty Ltd v Wilson Parking (Qld)Pty Ltd3 the situation was very similar to Hilary and Barack's case. In this case, the Court specifically stated that Booker (the lessor in this case) had "no grounds for refusing to discharge its obligation" to appoint an arbitrator merely on the grounds that the rental price was not fixed4. It clearly explained that when specific terms on the appointment of a third party have been set out in the original contract, then it no longer remains as a contingent obligation to be performed first before the ultimate obligation, i.e, re-renting the place can be completed. Since the existing option becomes operation on the day of expiry of the earlier lease, once it has been exercised, it is no longer a "conditional or contingent" obligation5. On this basis, the lessee was entitled to specific performance. Applying this precedent in Hillary's case, it appears that Booker may need to perform his obligation to appoint an arbitrator so the price can be fixed, after which the ultimate obligation, i.e, another lease term can also be accomplished. It must also be noted however, that Clause 4(b) states clearly that the option must be exercised "no later than 2 months prior to the expiration of the initial or previous term". In Hillary's case however, the option has been exercised after this period has expired, therefore there is a possibility that her right to exercise her option may no longer be valid, in which case Barack will not be obliged to perform his obligation to secure a rental price. Part B: The question of whether or not Huckabee has a

Effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioral Group Therapy Quantitative Essay

Effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioral Group Therapy Quantitative Analysis Article - Essay Example This paper aims at establishing the author’s potentiality in utilizing the main research methodologies to conduct the proposed research on cognitive behavioral group therapy in promoting performance among college students. Article on Quantitative Analysis Article 1: Ilkhchi, S., Poursharifi H., and Alilob, M 2011 The effectiveness of Cognitive-Behavioral Group Therapy on self-efficacy and assertiveness among anxious female students of high schools, Procedia - Social and Behavioral Sciences 30; 2586 – 2591. This article primarily focusses on the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral group therapy on promoting self-efficacy and assertiveness among anxious female students of high schools. Analysis of Research Question This article seeks to answer the question of how effective is cognitive behavioral group therapy on promoting self-efficacy and assertiveness among anxious female students of high schools. The research paper first asserts that high school students particularl y girls are predisposed to various stressors that make them prone to stress. The research paper asserts that effective therapy methods can be used to boost assertiveness and self-efficacy thereby preparing students for better academic performance (Beck, Epstein, Brown, & Steer, 1988). The research paper makes it clear that counseling in high schools is indeed an important activity and it should be encouraged. The researcher of this article has used interviews to collect data, used quantitative method to analyze the data and then present the research findings thereby answering the research question. Methodology Used The research article has taken on quantitative research methodology. A representative sample of high school girls, who have demonstrated various anxiety symptoms according to a present standard, are selected for the study (Colter, & Guerra, 1976). Their anxiety levels are predetermined and recorded. The students are then exposed to counseling therapy for a given time afte r which the anxiety levels are determined again. The values are analyzed using SPSS method and research findings presented in figures. Quantitative research methodology is a research method that seek to establish the reasons why certain phenomenon occurs the way they do (Jacobs, & Cochran, 1980). The research was aimed at establishing why people develop anxiety from low self-efficacy and non-assertiveness through cognitive behavior group therapy (CGBT). Findings From the studies conducted, it was established that the mean of self-efficacy and assertiveness were in cross range. The level of anxiety in every individual was found to have a direct correlation with his or her scores of self-efficacy and assertiveness. The selected population was found to have means of 37.13, 31.53 and 34.66 for interventions, placebo and control respectively. The standard deviation or deviation of each sample for the mean was found to be 9.53, 3.39 and 5.85 for each of the three settings respectively. Me an for self-efficacy and assertiveness were found to be 47.26 and 92.86. Standard deviations fro the different cases were found to be 10.06 and 24.84 respectively. Discussions The study was conducted to establish CBGT for assertiveness and self-efficacy among high school students. According to the findings, anxious students have strong

Living in Germany Around 1941 Essay Example for Free

Living in Germany Around 1941 Essay A) Explain why the invasion of the USSR changed the lives of those living in Germany around 1941-42. (12 Marks) The invasion of the USSR in the summer months was that of great confidence and assertiveness that they were on the ‘front foot’ from the German people. During these summer months, the Russians had been pushed back by the Germans to what many thought of as the core of the USSR; Russia. Obviously when the Germans had advanced 20 miles short of the central of the most powerful enemy they’ve faced yet, the German people had a right to be happy with their recent progress in the war. This changed their lives by giving them more confidence in that they felt they could defeat the Russians as they were pushing them back towards the capital. However, after the winter set in the attitude of the German people to the progress being made in the war changed. Before the war the Germans had demolished smaller countries such as France and Poland, meaning that the German people felt that losing was almost alien to them. But when the Russians kicked back against the Germans on the Eastern Front on December 5th 1941 outside of Moscow, the German retreat began. More and more soldiers fell, and the Germans were never able to recover the ground that they had lost. Due to the soldiers diminishing, letters had to be written back to rural Germany to notify those whom had relatives/friends in the war. When the letters started to come thick and fast, the German people now had a hint of doubt in their mind. I like to think of it as a seed that was planted- the plantation is from the initial invasion of the USSR, and when more and more letters and stories came back from the Russian lines the tree grew. Eventually, the doubt that was once a seed at the start of the invasion of Russia, had now fully flourished into a vast tree of doubt, showing us how the German lives had changed through doubt and anxiety that gradually built up through the invasion of Russia, from going and destroying France and Poland to being pushed back from the Russians. Some historians could say that the battle of Stalingrad had the biggest effect of the German people around 1941. I would say that it was the turning point in the entire war, as it caused the realization from the German people that they were not going to win the war. This contrasts to before the war, where, as said, the German people didn’t have many qualms about minor losses because they believed they knew they were going to win in the first pl ace. However during Stalingrad this changed; where a quarter million Germans were surrounded, field marshaled, and eventually forced to surrender- this continued on to 1942 where the German soldiers were freezing, and running low on ammunition. The news of this was tried to be kept ‘under wraps’ by some of the hierarchy in the German army, as it would prove low for morale. However the word spread through the press and a flurry of letters of death being sent home. This fully confirmed to the German citizens that the Germans were now on the ‘back foot’ changing their lives, as they now had to be preparing for a loss, instead of a victory. Although it is not directly coherent to the invasion of the USSR, it could be said that the bombings that partly came about from the invasion of Russia changed the lifestyles and actions of the German people. Before the bombings, William L Shirer reported â€Å"The atmosphere was so peaceful and calm. The bathing beach at Wannsee jammed with thousands. Hundreds of sailboats and canoes on the Havel. Families picnicking under the trees† this tells us that the German people were once not bothered as much by the war, and it continued to be ‘business as usual’ for the German citizens. I can contrast this when the bombings continued to develop on 16th and 17th of January 1943. The German people were now saying that the â€Å"English are clearly superior in the air, and that the German Luftwaffe is ‘impotent’ at the moment and has no possibility of retaliating appropriately† I think that this is a perfect example of the change from the Germans being confident and carrying on with their ‘normal day’ to then beginning to doubt the German superiority in the war, showing us how much their attitude has changed from pride to dread in a matter of three years. Even though the bombings weren’t as connected to the Germans invading Russia, it could be said that had not the Germans invaded Russia then the bombings may not have been present/ been less relentless.

Crime in Australia: An Overview

Crime in Australia: An Overview What is Crime What is Crime? Crime can be defined as breaking the law. The government or authorities usually set laws that the citizens must follow, punishment is prescribed for those who bleach those laws. The laws provided by a state are an example of behavior codes that influence society. The legal or criminal justice system enforces the law and punishes those who break it. There is a social stigma associate with crime. It is important to note that all breaches of the law are not criminal such as civil offenses and breach of contract. The tag ‘crime’ is usually reserved for the offences that cause harm or injury to the public, individuals or the state. Social, political, economic and psychological conditions influence the definition of crime and how the law is enforced. These changes may criminalize or decriminalize behavior. The statistics on crime will have to take this factor into account. Who is the Criminal? A criminal is deviant who does not follow social codes that exist in the society. Legally, a criminal is a person who breaches the law and commits a crime. This offender is the tried before a court of law for breaking the law. A criminal is usually found to be guilty of the charges put against him/her. A sentence or punishment is give to such an individual. Get help with your essay from our expert essay writers Types of crime In Australia crimes are legally classified as either indictable or non-indictable. Indictable offenses are heard in a superior court in the presences of a jury. However, non-indictable offenses are heard in magistrate courts and jury is not necessary. Although there are many differences in the various jurisdictions, a conclusion was made that offenses include; fraud, burglary, robbery, rape, assault and homicide. Crime is categorized as violent, public order or property crime in the criminal justice statistics. Violent crimes consist of assault, sexual violence, robbery, kidnapping or abduction and homicide. Robbery to some extent is a property crime. However, it’s considered a violent crime since the threat of violence is a graver offence. Criminal justice system in Australia Australia’s criminal law has evolved from the initial law adopted from the English common law. Australia’s federal government is made up of the national government and six states. The commonwealth government enforces its own laws. Commonwealth offenses include drug trafficking, breach of social security laws, property and personal offenses that occur within the commonwealth. Every state has its own criminal law. States like; Tasmania, Western Australia and Queensland have enacted the criminal codes. The other states; Victoria, South Australia and New South Wales use the common law. Currently gender, race, policing, law and crime are some of the topics for debate in the criminal justice system. Stakeholders are kin on establishing a relationship between crime, gender, race and the legal justice system. However, the issue has not received adequate media and political attention. Gender Race According to statistics on Australia’s workforce in criminal justice work there are more men compared to women. It is a ‘man’s’ job. Examining gender shades more light on criminology and victimization. Information and statistics provided also shows Australian indigenous white male represent the largest population in the prisons. The author observes, â€Å"That a specific group of approximately 2% of Australia’s female population accounts for half of the overall number of indigenous Australian women who are in prison.† These findings are astonishing. In addition, statistics also reveals that majority of those working in criminal justice are white males. The population of indigenous white men is larger than that of indigenous Australian women. Evidently, there is a racial disparity in the workforce of the criminal justice system in Australia Policing The role of the police in the legal justice system is analyzed by Cunneen in his book; Conflict, Politics and Crime: Aboriginal Communities and the Police. The author examines the over-criminalization of Australia’s indigenous people in relation to their colonial past. He developed a theory that there is a relationship between criminalization and colonization of the indigenous people. Cunneen gives attention to the role the police play in the process of criminalization of the indigenous people. He notes that the law enforcers particularly the police have limited effectives; their policies and practices are shortcoming. The police need to change their colonial policing style and culture. A zero tolerance approach towards crime has been adopted however, it is important to protect human rights and to use good judgment. Police have a vital role in crime prevention and reaction. However, more emphasis should be placed on crime prevention. The police need to organize targeted patrols, follow ups for victims with repeat allegations, faster improved response to victims, problem identification and development of solutions as well as cooperation with other law enforcing agencies. For this changes to take place successfully a cultural and mind set change is fundamental. (Brereton, David) Age The minimum age for trial in Australia’s juvenile court and in the adult courts varies. Nonetheless, 7 years is the minimum age for trial in a juvenile court and 16 years for trial in an adult court in most states. In some jurisdictions criminal charges such as murder, rape and treason are tried in adult courts. Sexuality Crime and society in Australia Women have often been the victims of crime. A study was conducted on the victimization of women in Australia. The survey on sexual and physical violence was carried out on women between 18 to 69 years. The definition of physical violence included threats, arm twisting, attempted suffocation and use of weapons like knifes or a guns. Forced sexual engagement, unwelcome sexual touch and attempts of sexual violence. According to the report 10% of the women who participated in the survey had experienced male violence that year or the previous one. The number of women who expreinced physical violence was twice as high as that of the ones who experienced sexual violence. The statistics indicated that 5% of the physical violence was perpetrated by a non-partner while 3% of the sexual violence was also committed by a non-partner. The report defined a non-partner as a friend, relative, acquaintance, workmate or stranger. General, partner sexual and physical violence are hardly reported to the authorities. Most victims find it easier to speak to their families and friends than report to the police. Table 1: Reports by victims of violence to family members, friends and the police. Partner violence Non-partner violence Family 42% 51% Friends 55% 57% Police 15% 16% The main question here is why the female victims of violence fail to report to the police. One of the most common reasons given by the victims was that they thought the case was minor or they thought that nothing could be done to help them. Has the legal system failed those whom it should protect? Its necessary to evaluate how informed the public is on individuals rights. Another area of concern is how much a person should take or allow themselves to be subjected to, in relation to violence before they can speak and seek legal justice. In 2001 and 2002 about 18 women were victims of gang rape and assault. The Ashfield gang rape perpetrated by the â€Å"K† Pakistani brothers is an example of such cases. Their victims were teenage girls from different ethnic backgrounds. The crime was comparable to Lebanese gang rapes in Sydney. Australia’s law defines rape as â€Å"unlawful sexual act with another person by force; without their consent.† The rapists’ video taped most of their rape and this was used in court as evidence. The criminal justice system judged and punished the perpetrators. The â€Å"K† brothers were sentenced to 15 to 24 years imprisonment. They were convicted for a total of 70 years for the 28 rape charges against them. In November 2005, an appeal made by three of the brothers was rejected. Instead in 2006 there term was extended by the Supreme Court (New South Wales). On of the brothers however, committed suicide in his cell. By 2007 the brothers were to face additional rape charges. During the court proceedings the issue of cultural difference between Australian and Pakistani culture arose. The rapist claimed that they did not understand what consent meant according to Australia’s terms. According to them the girls’ behavior was a form of consent. They claimed that their victims behaved in a way that Pakistani girls would not especially if they were not willing to cooperate. The presiding judge dismissed their claims and openly told off their lawyer for making such an argument. The above incident is an example of immigrants been the perpetrators of crime. The difference in culture is certain no excuse for committing such crimes. It is important to question how allowing immigrants into Australia influences crime. Certainly, different definitions of crime exist in varying countries and culture. What measures are in place to ensure that the interest of Australia’s population is safeguarded? Women are also victims of trafficking in Australia. These women are usually trafficked from other countries especially Asia and forced to work in as sex workers. The media highlighted this issue and claimed that government agencies helped the perpetrator. According to the media the government mismanaged cases by victims of trafficking and deported those women without giving them any compensation for the crimes committed against them. In response Australia’s parliament set up a joint committee to investigate the issue. The committee’s findings acknowledged that people trafficking is a major crime in Australia. Most of the trafficked people were unaware of the nature of work they would have to do in Australia. The committee was also concerned about the ease with which traffickers could access visas for hundreds of trafficked victims without raising any suspicion. Approximately 300 to 1000 women are trafficked into Australia annually. The trafficked women were forced to work not only in the sex industry but also in clothing and textiles, domestic work, construction and in the hospitality industry. Most of these victims were physically, sexually and mentally assaulted. Moreover, their working conditions were atrocious. Immigration has increased in Australia. In the 20th century more Asians have immigrated to Australia. This has lead to the increase of Asian gangs and criminal activities by these gangs in the major cities. Racial power struggles are evident even in politics. The ‘one National party’ was branded as Nazis by the Jews in Australia. The Australia-Israel Review printed the article with the aim of intimidating the party members. The attempts by the whites in Australia were shunned unlike the Aborigines. The whites were doing what the Aborigines had done but there move was termed as racist. The Aboriginals or the indigenous Australian people have in the past organized themselves on racial basis. They have also received special treatment from the government. They even have their own Aboriginal Law Council. The Aborigines account for 2% of Australia’s population. However, according to statistics by the Australian Institute of Criminology the Aborigines make up 30% of the inmates. (The Argus, 1985). Recent years have also witnessed crimes organized by a race against another. For instance the 2005 racial violence in Sydney is an example. There was a week long all attack on Muslims following an alleged attack of life guard in North Cronulla beach by a Lebanese man. Innocent people were attacked as gangs took advantage of the situation to target individuals based on their race. The government and the media did not do much to calm the situation. Moreover, to some extent the government was responsible for fueling such an attack. Since the September 11 terrorist attacks Muslim-Australians were subject to state surveillance, police raids and fear mongering. Media coverage on war on terrorism worsened the situation making all Muslim Australians to be labeled as terrorists. Media coverage on the Sydney riots appeared to support the violence. For instance, the Daily Telegraph, December had the heading â€Å"Fight for Cronulla: we want our beach back†. Past rape cases that in involved Lebanese men give justification to the attackers to claim that all Lebanese men are rapist. Clearly, such a claim has no basis because a number of Lebanese men were convicted of the crime it does not justify the punishment of an entire race. Terrorism is one of the challenges that this generation has to address. However, it is not justified to attack person and destroy property belonging to people because they belong to a particular race that is accused of terrorist acts. The division on racial lines was evident in the riots with different groups lashing out at others openly. The world is quickly becoming a global village. Therefore there is a need to understand, accept, cooperate and work with people from different cultures, races, ethnicity and religion. Tolerance should be emphasized in the current generation not violence or crimes against any particular race. A study done by the Australian government on juvenile offending revealed that ethnic minority youth were more likely to be offenders. Unemployment among the youth (15-19 years of age) was the main reason for engagement in crime. The unemployment rate for the minority youths was three times higher than the general unemployment rates of other youths. For instance the unemployment rate for Vietnamese Australian males doubles that of the general Australian youth rate. (HREOC 1993:223) The report by the Australia Bureau of Statistics showed that juveniles accounted for 13% of those in police custody. In 2003, persons between the ages of 15 and 19 accounted for the highest crime rate and booking. The juvenile offenders were four times more than the other offenders. Juvenile offenders were mostly charged with unwanted entry, theft, assault and motor vehicle theft. Cases of juvenile homicide, sexual violence, robbery and fraud were very minimal. (ABS, 2003) It is a matter of concern that youth engage in crime either individually or in gangs. Unemployment is one of the reasons given for this behavior. However, it is necessary to examine racial employment discrimination in terms of race. Statistics have shown that there is a large disparity between unemployment rates of minority youths with that of youth in general. A report by Australia Criminology Department showed that female homicide offenders were highest among 20 to 24 year olds. This was the same case for the men. (2003). Homicide cases for female offenders between 15 to 24 years of age had fluctuated in the 1990’s. A report prepared by the National Homicide Monitoring Program (NHMP) showed that in 2003 there were 341 cases of homicide in Australia. This was a 6% decrease compared to the findings of the previous year. Murder cases accounted for 89% of the homicide case in 2003 while the rest were manslaughter. Domestic related disputes were responsible for most of the female homicide incidences. The female victims were killed due to disputes related to child custody, break ups in a relationship and other partner conflicts. However, most of the homicide victims were male. They accounted for 67% of the homicide victims with men between the ages of 25 and 44 being the largest target. Compare to the women at all ages the male homicide victims were more expect for ages under 15. The female homicide victims had decreased by 15% compared to a survey done the previous year. (Australia Bureau of Statistics 2004) A survey done in South Australia, Queensland and Victoria indicated that 175,872 offenders were booked in 2003. 138,232 were male while 37,640 were female. Compared to the females, males were four times more likely to be offenders. The offending rate for men was 3,148 per 100,000. (2002-2003) Rehabilitation of the inmates is a subject that needs to be given priority as far as enforcement of the law in Australia is concerned. Research has revealed that rehabilitation of female inmates seems to emphasis on those convicted of minor offenses compared to those who have committed criminal offences like homicide. The research reveals that female prisoners with long term charges have limited and impersonalized rehabilitation. CONCLUSION Juvenile crime cases have increased worldwide. However, the crimes performed by the deviant youth are not as serious as those perpetrated by adults. In Australia the juvenile offenders rate has doubled, with most of the perpetrators been male youths. (AIC, 2003). It is argued that the main reason why juvenile booking rates have increased is because the youth are easier to arrest and prosecute. Their level of crime organization is generally less complex compared to that of adults. The main concern is how to rehabilitate youth crime offenders so that they do not continue to engage in crime in their adult life. Generally, fewer women are perpetrators of crime compared to women. However, they are often victimized, in relation to sexual or physical assault. The victims of human trafficking in Australia are mostly women. Crime rate are higher among certain races in Australia, especially among the minorities and the immigrants. This is mainly due to the racial disparities that exist in terms of employment opportunity and discrimination. Australia has made various initiatives to stop crime. As part of a crime prevention effort the National Community Crime Prevention Program was instituted in 2004. Its grant program received a funding of $ 65.5 million for the period between 2004 and 2008. These funds were to support grass root programs on crime prevention, improve safety in the community and reduce the fear associated with crime. The public, politicians and law enforcers should focus on crime prevention. It’s of utmost importance to change the perception on crime. It is not enough to react to criminals acts by arresting, taking to trial and convicting perpetrators. The government and its legal agents need to examine what can be done so as to address the issue of crime before it occurs. Prevention of crime should be given more attention. Instead of hiring more law enforcing officer, building more prisons and funding the criminal law justice system the funds can be used to improve development in the country. It is not enough to set up agencies to address the issue of crime. More far reaching initiatives need to be taken. Issues such as perception, equality in terms of opportunities and affirmative action for minorities, culture change and enforcement of the law without any bias should be considered in relation to crime and crime prevention. References Adam, G peter G. 1999. The Cambridge handbook of Australian Criminology. Cambridge, UK. Allen S. Walklate, 2001. Gender, Crime and Criminal Justice, Willan Publishing, UK. Argus correspondent, 1985. â€Å"Aborigines have the highest jail rate in the world.† The Argus, Nov. Australian Bureau of statistics, Australian Bureau of Statistics; 2003. Population by age and sex: Australian states and territories 1997 to 2002 ABS, Canberra. Australian Government: Australian Institute of Criminology, Chris Cunneen, White Robert, 2000. Juvenile Justice: youth and Crime in Australia. Oxford, UK. Cunneen, Chris, 1998. Conflict, Politics and Crime: Aboriginal Communities and the Police. Oxford, UK. D Chappell P Wilson, (eds.) 2000. Crime and the Criminal Justice System in Australia: 2000 and Beyond. Butterworths, Sydney Guillermo, Bernal, 2003. Handbook of Racial and Ethnic Minority Psychology. Oxford, UK. Jacobsen, G. 2005. â€Å"Brothers’ violent gang rapes revealed†. The Sydney Morning Herald. 21 July. Jacobsen, G.2007, â€Å"Charges brought against brothers for rapes.† The Sydney Morning Herald. 23 Nov. Mason, G Tomsen, S (eds.), 1997. Homophobic Violence. Hawkins Press, Sydney Mason, G, ‘Hate Crime as Moral Category: Lessons from the Snowtown Case’ Australian and New Zealand Journal of Criminology 40(3) 249-271 (2007) Recorded crime: victims, Australia 2003. ABS Canberra. Australian Bureau of Statistics 2003. Population by age and sex: Australian states and territories 2003. ABS Canberra. Mason, G, 1990. Youth Suicide in Australia: Prevention Strategies, Department of Employment, Education and Training Australian Institute of Criminology, Canberra Mason, G, 2002. The Spectacle of Violence: Homophobia, Gender Knowledge, Routledge, United Kingdom. Mason, G, 2007. ‘Hate Crime’ in T. Anthony C. Cunneen, A Critical Criminology Reader, Federation Press, Annandale Mouzos, J Makkai, T. 2004. Womens experiences of male violence: findings from the Australian component of the International violence against women survey (IVAWS). Australian Institute of Criminology, Canberra. Mouzos, J. 2002, Homicide in Australia: 2000-2001 National Homicide Monitoring Program (NHMP) Annual Report, Australian Institute of Criminology, Canberra. Ms Maltzahm, Proof Committee Hansard, 18 November 2003. Sir, P. 1995. Violent Property Crime. Federation Press, Sydney. Wallace, N, 2005. â€Å"Gang rapist’s attacks unavoidable, says lawyer†. The Sydney Morning Herald, 10 Dec. Wallace, Natasha, 2005. â€Å"Gang rapist claims right to assault† The Sydney Morning Herald. 12 Oct. Wallace, Natasha. 2005. ‘History of infamy’, The Sydney Morning Herald. 24 Nov.

Lawmakers Should Pass the DREAM Act Essay -- Essays on the DREAM Act

Imagine a world with an educated youth. Now imagine a parallel world where children are fighting to keep a smile on their faces, because, in truth, it is the only thing they have. In reality, this is what is happening. Youth, who have the privilege to be American citizens, are granted a very fulfilling education with a promise of a career. Children of illegal and undocumented immigrants do not have such luck. Some undocumented children in America have very promising futures and even a degree under their belts, but they cannot apply for a job because they have no proof of citizenship. A controversial topic is the matter of the DREAM Act (Development, Relief, and Education, for Alien Minors) which permits undocumented immigrants to obtain citizenship and later get a job. Is this topic really a law†¦ or a lifestyle? Should we really be arguing on the matter of life or death? When the Dream Act is put into play, its positive effects are more numerous than the negative ones. With this act, undocumented children are given an education and a future. What is better than an educated America? With education, America can be even more dominant. Everyone, despite their legal classification, deserves to have the option of success. On the matter of money, taxpayers would not have to pay $16.2 billion annually on behalf of deportation fees. With these children growing to be citizens, they will have to pay taxes which will also help the growing deficit. America was born on the morale that all people deserve a safe asylum and freedom. There are, however, some negatives to this act as well. Some voters speculate that instituting this bill will create a large scale â€Å"chain migration†. They feel that this act is only a â€Å"magnet† for the famil... ...Multiculturalism: Essential Primary Sources. Ed. K. Lee Lerner, Brenda Wilmoth Lerner, and Adrienne Wilmoth Lerner. Detroit: Gale, 2006. 353-355. Opposing Viewpoints in Context. Web. 11 Apr. 2014 Malkin, Michelle. "Lawmakers Should Reject the DREAM Act." The Children of Undocumented Immigrants. Ed. David Haugen and Susan Musser. Detroit: Greenhaven Press, 2013. At Issue. Rpt. from "Harry Reid's Illegal Alien Student Bailout." Michelle Malkin.com. 2010. Opposing Viewpoints in Context. Web. 11 Apr. 2014. Valbrun, Marjorie. "Children of Illegal Immigrants Struggle When Parents Are Deported." The Children of Undocumented Immigrants. Ed. David Haugen and Susan Musser. Detroit: Greenhaven Press, 2013. At Issue. Rpt. from "Foster Care, Uncertain Futures Loom for Thousands of Immigrant Children." America's Wire. 2012. Opposing Viewpoints in Context. Web. 11 Apr. 2014.

Deviant Behavior Essay -- Sociology Sociological Psychology Essays

Deviant Behavior Deviant behavior refers to behavior that does not conform to norms, does not meet the expectations of a group of a society as a whole. After birth, children begin to experience situations with others. They are taught what he or she should and should not do, what is good or bad and what is right or wrong. Learning habits that conform to the customs and traditions of the groups into which the child is born develops a system of values. These values provide justification and motivation or for wanting to refrain from behavior that is disapproved. After reading this, one can see how a behavior is considered deviant, but the question is, â€Å"Why is a certain type of behavior considered deviant?† This paper will take a particular deviant behavior, which is illicit drug use, and examine why this type of behavior is labeled as deviant. By using theoretical approaches, this paper will provide the reader an explanation of why illicit drug use occurs in the first place. Throughout history, all human societies have used drugs, but it hasn’t been until recently considered deviant behavior. Drug use was seen only as a personal problem, but today’s societies, in general, condemns drug use. There are many reasons for this perception of drug use in our society today. It’s stated that â€Å"since a social process creates standards for deviance, consumption of a particular drug becomes deviant only when individuals and groups define it a such† (Clinard and Meier, 2001). This is seen in new laws and legislation against drug use, making drug use, seen by society, as wrong and criminal. This causes public opinion to look at drug use as deviant because the norms of society have been changed. These new laws were passed by legislation because of the common myth that drug use is the cause of bigger problems of society. Society is given the belief that drug users posses certain characteristics which include â€Å"low self-esteem, social incompetence, inadequate identity, easily influenced by peers, and irresponsible or mindless† (Moore and Saunders, 1999). This tells society that only troubled people use drugs. This common belief holds that people using drugs necessarily have personal problems and lack social skills, which then in turn, threatens personal health and morality to societies well being. Also, medically, reference to elicit drug use is considered drug abuse. T... ...s of drug use as very negative because mostly of the formal sanctions powered by the legislature. The media portrays the stereotypes of the type of people who use drugs and this only helps fuel societies approach in dealing with illicit drug use. Society in general needs to refrain from looking at drug use as negative, but look at it as a norm for human beings. Until drug use is seen as a norm, the media and politician will still see that all drug use is a problem, and considered it deviant. Study that would help this issue would be if drug use has any positive benefits that people who abstain from drugs do not receive. Works Cited: 1. Akens, Ronald. 1998. Social Learning and Social Structure: A General Theory of Crime and Deviance. Boston: Northeastern University Press. 2. Becker, Howard. 1963. Outsiders: Studies in Sociology of Deviance. New York: The Free Press. 3. Clinad, Marshall and Meier. 2001. Sociology of Deviant Behavior. Orlanda: Harcourt College Publishers. 4. Goode, Jack. 1994. A Theory about Control. Boulder: Westview Press. 5. Moore, David and saunders, Bill. 2001. â€Å"Youth Drug Use and the Prevention of Problems.† Journal of Drug Issues 13:219-235.

Influenza and its Effects :: Journalism Media Studies Health Influenza Essays

Influenza and its Effects The latest outbreak of "Spanish Influenza" continues to have a significant impact on life both in London and throughout Europe. The economic consequences are troubling as more and more workers from textile houses, mines and other areas where people are working in enclosed and confined spaces succumb suddenly to the disease. In some cases the onset can be as little as two hours. Industrial areas like London and the Midland areas of Nottingham, Leicester and Northampton have been especially hard pressed. While rarely fatal in the middle-aged, the symptoms of influenza are still dramatic and usually keep the patient out of work for a number of days. However after this period it disappears as swiftly as it came. Already burdened by the demands of wartime production industry has taken a heavy blow. Despite effective treatment with quinine Influenza is spreading faster than doctors can keep up, and indeed now there is scarcely an area of the country left unaffected by it. In some p laces the number of workers affected is as high as 70 percent. This would be far worse for the Allies were it not that the Germans were also severely affected by this outbreak, as reported by correspondents on the Western front. Berlin is said to have upwards of 160,000 cases of influenza, half of which are children. This coincides with another influenza outbreak in India, which is depleting their work force in a similar manner to that in England. The current climate is exceedingly dry and hot and it is felt that this may be contributing to the spread of the illness. Before May few if any cases of influenza were reported in or around London or elsewhere in Europe lending credence to this association. Other nations in Europe are also significantly impacted and it is believed that this current outbreak came to Europe from the south and worked its way northwards, hence its characterization as "Spanish Influenza". The fact that half of the cases in Berlin are children is similar to the situation in England. In Birmingham several schools recently had to be closed due to influenza outbreaks and in Egham, Surrey one school reported 50 to 60 cases and another over 130. Again this is thought due both to the climate and the fact that the students are together indoors for extended periods.

Othello: Religious Motifs Essay

Othello: Religious Motifs BY Cherrry678 Relationships in which people allow themselves to be manipulated through their weaknesses are truly flawed and have a great potential for failure. These relationships can become tainted by Jealousy and rumours nurtured by deceitful individuals. Such is the situation in Shakespeare’s Othello, which depicts the tragic downfall of an apparently perfect relationship. Shakespeare uses images of heaven in the beginning of the play to emphasize the seemingly flawless love between Othello and Desdemona. Furthermore, as the play progresses, the Juxtaposition etween heaven and hell is used to represent the manipulative powers of Iago over Othello revealing the weaknesses of Desdemona and Othello’s relationship. As a result, the twisted heaven and hell imagery used near the end of Othello reflects the eventual break down of Othello and Desdemona’s marriage. Thus, in Shakespeare’s Othello, the connotation of the religious motifs throughout are used to develop the idea that even the most loving couples have their flaws leaving them vulnerable to the destructive powers of Jealousy brought on by the manipulative influences of others, resulting in suspicion and ultimately betrayal. The seemingly perfect love between Othello and Desdemona is initially emphasized by Shakespeare’s use of heavenly images. Through images of heaven, Othello’s passionate love for Desdemona is revealed. After being accused by Brabantio of using enchantments to win over his daughter’s love, Othello swears against it assuring their love is true: And till she come, as truly as to heaven I do confess the vices of my blood, So Justly to your grave ears I’ll present How did I thrive in this fair ladys love, And she in mine (1. 3. 122-126). Othello swears on heaven that his love for Desdemona and her love for him is not a esult of witchcraft, but the result of an honest love for one another. The image of heaven is used to emphasize that Othello believes that the love between him and Desdemona is as pure as heaven itself. To call their love heavenly shows an exaggerated passion between the two further emphasizing the appearance of their perfect union. Similarly, Desdemona feels that the love between her and Othello is destined to be, and through Shakespeare’s use of divine imagery this point is emphasized. Upon arriving in Cyprus, Desdemona and Othello are reunited for the first time since their Journey: â€Å"The heavens forbid/ But that our loves and comforts hould increase/ Even as our days do grow†(2. 1. 190-192). For Desdemona to pray that nothing come between them and their eternal happiness shows a great deal of passion. Furthermore, to believe that their love will only die if they die highlights the certainty in which Desdemona feels that their love is more than Just a coincidence, but rather fate itself. The intensity of Desdemona’s feelings for Othello adds to the idea that their marriage is ideal. Moreover, images of the soul illustrate Desdemona’s love and her willingness to risk her entire being to be with Othello. When confronted bout her love for Othello, Desdemona reveals that [her] heart’s subdued/ Even to the very quality of [her] lord. [She] saw Othello’s visage in his mind, Did [she her] soul and fortunes consecrate (1. . 250-254). â€Å"From the beginning, Desdemona has viewed love as a risk and challenge. She has violently uprooted herself from her father’s protection and the conventional expectations of Venetian society†¦ â€Å"(Thomas Neely 96). Desdemona believes that a life full of risks and unknown dangers is worth living if she is by Othe llo’s side. This complete devotion of body and soul reveals Desdemona’s feelings of loyalty towards Othello. The rendering of her soul; her whole entire being, wholly to Othello emphasizes the impeccable love between the two of them. Thus, through heavenly images the apparently perfect union between Desdemona and Othello is portrayed throughout the first scenes of the play. Despite the apparent perfect relationship between Othello and Desdemona, the flaws within their marriage are revealed through lagds manipulative powers as illustrated by the Juxtaposition of heaven and hell. Shakespeare uses lagds character to bring about the doubt in Othello and Desdemona’s perfect heavenly love through mages of hell. During his first soliloquy, part of lagds plan is revealed: â€Å"l have’t! It is engender’d! Hell and night/ Must bring this monstrous birth to the world’s light†(l . . 392-393). Desdemona and Othello’s relationship is represented as the good in the world; the light. For their relationship is that of perfection, they both love and trust each other with a deep passion. However, Iago is the opposite of this heavenly light and with him comes hell and corruption. When the c haracters meet, the sense of perfection is lost and human faults come into play. Furthermore, the Juxtaposition f heaven and hell illustrates that Iago is the tempter in Othello and Desdemona’s relationship. After giving Cassio advice on how to approach Othello regarding his job, Iago reveals his true plan: Divinity of hell! When devils will the blackest sins put on, They do suggest at first with heavenly shows, AS I do now (2. 3. 321-324). By comparing himself to a devil that appears innocent, Iago is revealing his ability to deceive those around him with a fapde of kindness. â€Å"To interpret Iago as a devil in turn implies Iago is more than that: a fiend whose fiendishness remains unproven in [the] play†¦ (Christofides 19). Furthermore, the contrast of the heaven and hell further highlights the Machiavellian nature of Iago that allows him to manipulate those around him without feeling remorse. Consequently, Iago tricks Othello into believing he is an honest man, thus, giving him the ability to manipulate Othello. Moreover, there is a lack of trust between Othello and Desdemona which is made evident through comparisons to the devil. Clearly, Othello is suspicious of something when he accuses Desdemona’s hand of being â€Å"hot, hot, and moist† and require[ing] a sequester from liberty, fasting and prayer, uch castigation, exercise devout; For here’s a young and sweating devil here that commonly rebels (3. 4. 34-39). By accusing Desdemona of having a moist hand, a symbol of amorous nature, he is accusing her of being unfaithful. Othello believes that Desdemona is a devil who needs to repent for the crimes she has committed against him. However, Othello has no proof that she has done any harm; he is simply accusing her based on lies told to absence of trust within their marriage. As a result, perverse images of heaven are used to show that lagds trickery has caused Othello to give up on those he loves. While Iago fills Othello’s head with lies of Desdemona and Cassio together, Othello comes to the conclusion that â€Å"†¦ is true†¦. [and] [a]ll [Othellds] fond love thus doles] [he] blow to heaven. ‘ ‘Tis gone†(3. 3. 444-446). By believing what Iago says to be the truth in such a brash manner, a lack of confidence in Othello is revealed. This lack of confidence causes Othello to doubt other aspects of his life such as his relationship with Desdemona allowing Iago to further manipulate Othello. Therefore, Iago has the power to make Othello believe that Desdemona is being unfaithful to him thus, ausing Othello to lose all hope in his marriage. This loss of love is reflected through Othello’s loss of religion. Therefore, lagds manipulative influences expose the true weaknesses within Othello and Desdemona’s relationship which is reflected through contrasting images of the divine and damned. Furthermore, due to their marriage’s weaknesses, the eventual breakdown of Othello and Desdemona’s relationship is reflected through twisted heaven and hell imagery. Through the ironic use of divine images it is shown that when he is overcome by Jealousy, Othello’s sense of Justice becomes twisted. When confronted by Emilia, Othello gives reason as to why he killed Desdemona: Cassio did top her. Ask they husband else. O, I were damn’d beneath all depth in hell But what I did proceed upon Just grounds -ro this extremity (5. 2. 136-139). Othello’s sense of morality is corrupted; he believes that he is Justified in killing Desdemona because of her betrayal. â€Å"Here, Othello Judges on behalf of God†¦ but, of course, the audience knows Desdemona has been misjudged, that the sword of justice should rightly 21) for Desdemona is innocent. Othello has been tricked by Iago into believing that he has the authority to choose what is right nd wrong. He then uses this authority misguidedly, resulting in the breakdown of his character and eventually his relationship with Desdemona. Additionally, the ironic reference to damnation further depicts Just how twisted his morality is; for he believes that what he did was truly Just. Moreover, Shakespeare illustrates the contrast between Othello’s assumed morality and his true crime by once more using images of heaven and hell. After Desdemona is dead, her virtuous nature is compared to Othello’s: â€Å"O, the more angel she,] And you the blacker devil! â€Å"(5. 2. 130-131). Othello lacks confidence within himself due to his differences, hich is emphasized through the use of a racial comment. However, these differences had meant nothing in the beginning, for the love between him and Desdemona was too strong. Consequently, Othello lets these differences get to him allowing Iago to manipulate him into losing the morality and honour he first possessed, reducing him to evil; a devil in comparison to Desdemona. Resulting in the further breakdown of Othello and Desdemona’s relationship. Ultimately, as a result of distrust and Jealousy Othello betrays Desdemona, as is depicted through the use of religious images. Emilia reveals to Othello the true tragedy of his crime: â€Å"This deed of thine is no more worthy heaven/ Than thou wast worthy her†(5. 2. 160-161). Othello so overcome by Jealousy and anger is no longer associated with heavenly his entire marriage to Desdemona and ultimately leading to his betrayal of her. However, since Desdemona is still associated with heavenly images, it emphasizes her loyalty which in contrast further underlines Othello’s flaws and the tragedy of his betrayal. Thus, through twisted images of heaven and hell Othello’s betrayal of Desdemona and its consequential ruin of their relationship is portrayed. The shift from positive to negative connotation of the religious motif throughout Othello is used to develop the idea that even the most loving couples can have their flaws manipulated by others allowing them to be overcome by Jealousy, resulting in a lack of trust and ultimately betrayal. In the beginning, heavenly images are used to illustrate an almost perfect love between Othello and Desdemona. Later, near the middle of Othello, the playwright uses contrasting images of heaven and hell to represent lagds manipulative powers over Othello revealing the flaws within Othello nd Desdemona’s relationship. Thus, the ironic use of heaven and hell imagery near the end of the play mirrors the tragic breakdown of Othello and Desdemona’s marriage. Since relationships are not perfect they can become easily tainted when left to the deceitful will of others. For when people allow their weaknesses to rule over their lives true tragedy ensues. It is up to those individuals to decide whether or not to let the lies brought about by others to affect them or not. This is the decision that ultimately determines the strength of a relationship, not the number of flaws within it.

Which theory best explains the development of EU environmental policy?

The successful development of EU international environmental policy has been the subject of much recent study within various disciplines. One promising theory for cross-disciplinary researches of EU environmental policy invokes the concept of international regime. Regime theory might expect to explain a great deal about the development of EU environmental policy in global environmental affairs. It is insightful to consider the EU environmental policy as a regime given that the regime definition most frequently cited is so broad as to certainly include the EU where ‘norms, rules and decision-making procedures in a given area of international relations' (Krasner, 1983, p. 2) are said to be in existence. This sort of theory would enable one to consider the connections between the institutions of the EU and the member states. It may explain the inter-state relationship that lies behind the formation and development of EU international environmental policy. Te positions the EU projects in international affairs are evidently themselves the product of interest mediation and agreed bargaining directed by institutions. This paper will consider the work of both international relations (IR) and international law (IL) scholars to evaluate regime theory as instrument of EU environmental policy, using ozone layer depletion case study as specific example. Main Body International Regime Theory Although international regimes were used much earlier by IL as a means of giving an account of legal regulation in unregulated areas (Connelly and Smith 2002, p. 190), the regime theory has gained significance originally within the discipline of IR. The regime theory was developed to explain stability in the international system despite the absence or decline of domination (Connelly and Smith 2002, p. 202). It is only in the 1990th that regime theory has again become the focal point of legal scholars searching for ways to stimulate international cooperation (Connelly and Smith 2002, p. 10). This requires the organization into a unified pattern of the disciplines of IR and IL, the relationships between them having been one of mutual neglect, as explained by Hurrell and Kingsbury: Regime theorists have tended to neglect the particular status of legal rules, to downplay the links between specific sets of rules and the broader structure of the international legal system, and to underrate the complexity and variety of legal rules, processes, and procedures. On the other hand, theoretical accounts of international . . . law have often paid rather little explicit attention to the political bargaining processes that underpin the emergence of new norms of international . . . law, to the role of power and interest in inter-state negotiations, and to the range of political factors that explain whether states will or will not comply with rules. (1992, p. 12) There is no absolute agreement on what precisely forms an international regime. Goldie, in one of his works in this area, described regimes as: (1) the acceptance, amongst a group of States, of a community of laws and of legal ideas; (2) the mutual respect and recognition accorded by certain States to the unilateral policies of others acting in substantial conformity with their own, enmeshing all the States concerned in a regime with respect to those policies; (3) a common loyalty, among a group of States, to the principle of abstention regarding a common resource. 1962, p. 698) Thomas Gehring (1990) presents a more integrated work in this area, in particular as it better addresses the role of IL in international regime theory. He identifies international regimes as the regulations, developed within the context of a consultation of parties to the regime, governing a specific area of IR. Within this structure, IL is the search for unanimity and agreement on the priorities and plans for international action. Once these are made clear, norms will develop as to how to carry out these priorities and plans, resulting in accepted norms or â€Å"shared expectations† concerning the behaviour of states (Gehring, 1990, p. 37). Certainly, this progress from priority setting to norm gradual development takes time, but it is the regime structure that allows for the process to take place at all. Thus, regimes create the building blocks for the development of norms and rules. Development of EU Environmental Policy and Regime Theory. The influence of EU within environmental affairs cannot be disregarded as the environment in general has to a great extent become a matter of international concern. Of the many international organisations and specialised bodies dealing with environmental issues, the one mostly associated with such work is the European Union. Among other bodies and specialized agencies, the EU is most closely involved in environmental affairs. Regime theory is the most commonly employed theoretical paradigm in the study of EU international environmental politics. The study of the EU focuses upon how the EU affects the prospects of regime-building and how it may create the path of international cooperation. By signing up to agreements on behalf of its member states, the EU increases the scope of a regime by increasing the obligations of states that may in a different way have adopted lower standards. The EU pulls states into commitments. Often, however, the ‘convoy' analogy (Bretherton and Vogler 1997, p. 22) more precisely describes the process, whereby action is delayed by the slowest part of the train. This effect is seen during the ozone negotiations. Despite the attempts of Denmark and Germany to push things forward, the precluding tactics of France and the UK were able to ensure that on many occasions the EU was ‘condemned to immobility' (Jachtenfuchs, 1990, p. 265). Yet, by coordinating the position of (currently) 27 member nations in environmental negotiations, the Commission makes smaller the complexity of negotiations and decreases pressures upon international organisations to perform that function. Approaches informed by regime theory would also help to see the leadership role of the EU as an effort to originate cooperation conditional on the involvement of other parties. Hence the statement of a greenhouse gas decrease target as early as 1990 was planned as a first move in the ‘nice, reciprocate, retaliate' strategy that Connelly and Smith (2002, p. 269 indicated is the necessary to cooperation. Paterson (1996, p. 105) notes, for example, that â€Å"The announcement of the EU target in October 1990 was explicitly designed to influence the outcome of the Second World Climate Conference and to precipitate international negotiations†. Usually, however, IR perspectives tend to overlook the significance of intra-country dynamics to the creation of positions in international agreements. This factor severely restricts their applicability to EU decision-making development. In spite of that, in the ozone case it could be argued a combination of ‘domestic' and international pressures best explain the role of the EU in creating and supporting the regime in question. The EU is as one unit in this case. The four relationships are: one between member states and the EU; between the EU organisations in their internal power efforts; among the boards of directors and eventually between the various boards of directors and interest groups (Matlary, 1997, p. 146). With the EU environmental policy one clearly has a regime within a regime. Models of multi-level governance used to explain the policy development within Europe may be extended to include the international dimension. Viewed from this perspective, EU international environmental negotiations become a site of debate between transnational networks of environment departments from government and regional economic institutions working together with NGOs and sympathetic international organisations (such as UNEP), set against networks including Trade and Industry departments, business lobbies and international organisations which promote the interests of industry (such as UNIDO ( United Nations Industrial Development Organisation)) (Connelly and Smith 2002, p. 36). The interconnected groups operate horizontally and vertically and across national, regional and international levels including state and non-state players alike in strategic unions established on particular issues. Cooperation in Environmental Problems Collaboration is represented by the game, wherein each state follows a dominant strategy that leads to suboptimal payoffs for both. Regime theory presents the EU primarily as a tool. The EU deliberately seeks to change the system, design strategies to do so, and attempts to implement the strategies. To assess the development of EU environmental policy in environmental cooperation, then, two potential roles of the EU must be examined: the EU as tool and the EU as independent advocate. The EU helps states overcome the complexity of issues to arrive at coordination equilibrium. States usually remain concerned that others will exploit them, and the EU is needed to increase confidence in compliance. As independent actor, the EU is expected to play a significant role in environmental cooperation. Increased autonomy of the EU on some environmental issues and the increased needs of states to rely on them for collaboration and coordination allow those organizations with unified leadership and significant resources to have independent effects. Ozone: The First Global Challenge The development of the regime intended to limit the release into the atmosphere of ozone-depleting chemicals is in many ways a case of EU-US relations. The key turning points in the development of the process of negotiating from a framework convention at Vienna through to legally imposing an obligation protocol commitments at Montreal, London and Copenhagen reflect changes in the negotiating position of the EU and the US (Connelly and Smith 2002, p. 230). The development of ozone polices can be traced back to 1977. The ‘can ban' established in the US put the US in conditions to push for a global ban on CFCs. Process of negotiating moved very gradually at first against strong European opposition to cuts in CFCs, despite a Council resolution in March 1980 restricting the use of CFCs, reacting to American pressure and increasing public concern over the ozone problems. The supporters of controls (the US, Canada, the Nordic states, Austria and Switzerland), met together in 1984 to create the ‘ Toronto group'. The EU initially indicated that no controls were necessary. However, eventually it admitted that a production capacity cap may be required and presented a draft protocol that included their 1980 measures. The offered 30 per cent reduction was without difficulty achievable because use was already declining (Connelly and Smith 2002, p. 200) and in essence served to fix the status quo (Jachtenfuchs, 1990). The deadlock that resulted between the EU and the Toronto group made certain that only a framework convention could be made at Vienna. This promised intercommunion in research and monitoring and promotion of information-sharing. At the March 1986 assemblyof the EU Council of Ministers, the EU took a position of a 20 per cent CFC production cut. This was partly impelled by the threat of unilateral action by the US to impose trade sanctions against the EU (Connelly and Smith 2002, p. 261). The Montreal Protocol later agreed in September 1987 required cuts of 50 per cent from 1986 levels of production and use of the five principal CFCs by 1999. The figure of a 50 per cent cut was established as a settlement of a dispute by concessions on both sides between the EU's proposed freeze and the US's proposal for a 95 per cent cut. The Protocol contained an interval for the implementation of the Protocol by less developed countries, restrictive measures on trade with non-members and an ozone fund for technology transport. This latter element of the agreement is especially important for the EU for, as Jachtenfuchs (1990, p. 272) states, ‘The success of the EU's environmental diplomacy in this important field will to a large extent depend on how far it is able to provide technical and financial assistance to developing countries'. As a regional economic integration organisation, the EU was granted permission to meet consumption limits together rather than country by country. This was planned to assure some transfers of national CFC production quotas among EU member-states in order to allow commercial producers in Europe to improve production processes cost-effectively. Despite this concession, some European members in the Protocol process believed that they were ‘bullied' into an agreement favourable to US industry, dubbing the Montreal agreement ‘The DuPont Protocol' (Parsons, 1993, p. 61). In spite of that, on 14 October 1988 the Council adopted a law, transforming every aspect of the Protocol into EU legislation. The law came into force instantly in order to emphasise the importance of the issue and to prevent trade distortions which might emerge from non-simultaneous use of the new legislation (Connelly and Smith 2002, p. 269). At the March assembly of the EU Environment Council which took place in 1989, the UK after a long delay joined the rest of the EU in agreeing to phase-out all CFCs ‘as soon as possible but not later than 2000' (Parsons, 1993, p. 47). At the same time France submitted to external pressure to drop its uncompromising position. The London assembly of the members in June 1990 was consequently able to agree that all entirely halogenated CFCs would be phased-out by the year 2000, with successive lessening of 85 per cent in 1997 and 50 per cent in 1995. Some member states have gone beyond the restrictions stated in the international agreements, however. Germany, for instance, has passed legislation stating that CFCs be removed by 1993, halons by 1996, HCFC 22 by 2000 and CT (carbon tetrachloride) and MC (methyl chloroform) by 1992 (Parsons, 1993). On another hand, behind the diplomacy of the negotiations between the states, the case is in a fundamental way one of the competing positions of the chemical companies, chiefly, ICI (in the UK), Du Pont (in the US) and Atochem (in France). Industry agents served formally on European national delegations through the whole of the process. EU industrialists ‘believed that American companies had endorsed CFC controls in order to enter the profitable EU export markets with substitute products that they had secretly developed' (Benedick, 1991, p. 23). The EU followed the industry line and reflected the views of France, Italy and the United Kingdom in its policy. The significance of these commercial considerations is easily noticed in the persistent efforts to define cuts in HFCs and HCFCs (perceived to be the best alternative to CFCs). The EU has found it problematic to come to an agreeable position on reducing the production and consumption of these chemicals because substitute chem icals were not yet easily available. Indecision could also be explained by the fact that some European producers wanted to establish export markets for HCFCs in the less developed ‘south'. The differing commercial interests regarding the ozone issue presented the difficulty the EU faced in its effort to formulate common policy positions in international environmental process of negotiating. This case demonstrates that ozone depletion was one of the first global environmental issues to create a coordinated and consentient international response. Despite remaining weakness in the ozone regime it is regarded to be one of the few tangible successes of EU international environmental policy taking into account that governments took action before certain proof of environmental disaster had occurred. The EU has explicit rules, agreed upon by governments, and provides a framework for the facilitation of ongoing negotiations for the development of rules of law. Regime theory regards EU international environmental policy as a means by which states solve collective environment problems. Regime theory, as well as most current studies of cooperation in international politics, treats the EU as means to an end – as intermediate variables between states' interests and international cooperation. The EU is an independent actor which plays an independent role in changing states' interests – and especially in promoting cooperation. Conclusion The consideration in this paper of the ozone depletion regimes reveals that there is prospect for development in the international legal order. The picture that emerges of EU international environmental policy and politics is a complex and relating to the study of several subject disciplines. It should be noted that there is none predominant theoretical perspectives in international environmental politics adequate to explain this rich complexity. Given the complex reality of environmental cooperation between states and the context within which it develops, explaining policy processes and developments by a single theoretical perspective is an uncertain prospect. Still better understanding of the developments of EU environmental policy in these processes may be fostered by relying on a regime theory.